Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Migraine among University Students in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Background: Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder among young adults, yet knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices (KAP) remain under-explored in Bangladeshi university students. This study aimed to assess KAP toward migraine and examine associations with socio-demographic factors.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 528 university students using a structured online questionnaire. Data on demographics, headache history, migraine knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices were collected. Knowledge and practice levels were calculated and categorized as poor, moderate, or good, while attitudes were classified as negative, neutral, or positive. Associations with socio-demographic characteristics were analyzed using chi-square tests.
Results: Recurrent headaches were reported by 84.7% of students, with 54.7% previously diagnosed with migraine and 63.4% reporting a family history. Most participants correctly identified migraine as a neurological disorder (78.8%) and recognized common symptoms such as light/sound sensitivity (74.8%) and nausea/vomiting (66.1%). Awareness of triggers and preventive strategies ranged from 57% to 77%, but misconceptions persisted, with only 40.2% correctly noting antibiotics are ineffective. Knowledge levels were significantly associated with gender, faculty, academic year, and residence type (p < 0.05). Attitudes were mixed; approximately half acknowledged the academic impact of migraine and the value of professional care, with positive attitudes more prevalent among male students, higher-year students, and those living with family or in shared rentals (p < 0.001). Preventive practices were generally suboptimal: only 42.2% consistently maintained hydration, 31.6% controlled screen time, and 30.1% sought professional advice during severe episodes. Practice levels were associated with gender, university type, faculty, academic year, and residence (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: While Bangladeshi university students demonstrate moderate migraine knowledge, attitudes and preventive practices remain insufficient. Socio-demographic factors influence KAP outcomes, underscoring the need for targeted, campus-based educational interventions and promotion of evidence-based migraine management strategies.